Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune chronic disease solely responsible for most of the disability cases reported. The disease attacks the people who crossed the age of 50-55. The disease affects cartilages, an important element that protects the joints and allows them to move freely. Constant reduction in the amount of cartilages leads to severe pain, swelling, and stiffness.
What Causes Arthritis?
Doctors are yet to identify the primary causes of rheumatoid arthritis. There is also some evidence that suggest virus, bacteria and fungi are a cause behind the disease. Family history of the disease is also a risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis. If you have the history of any previous injury, infections and allergic reactions, then you may develop the symptoms of arthritis. Certain foods and obesity also leads to the arthritis.
Symptoms of Arthritis:
The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis vary from person to person. Patients primarily report about loss of appetite and warmth around the joints. The following are the primary symptoms of arthritis that should be immediately reported to the doctor.
- Fatigue/loss of energy
- Loss of appetite
- Reduced ability or inability to move the joint
- Redness of the skin around a joint
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
Diagnosis of Arthritis:
Doctors may conduct a few laboratory and clinical tests to diagnose the disease. To confirm the history and intensity of the disease, they analyze patients’ complete health history. They also diagnose the areas and asses the exact location of the areas where inflammation takes place. After laboratory tests, blood tests and other tests, they suggest the medication schedule. Doctors also conduct an MRI and CT scan to establish the presence of the disease.
How to Treat Arthritis and the Recommended Drugs:
A few physical therapies are very effective in the treatment of arthritis. Surgery correction is also an important part of the treatment. Doctors also recommend hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy to the patients after analyzing their health condition. They prescribe Celebrex, an effective drug widely used to treat arthritis.